Wetland birding habitat

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Northern Flicker among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Prairie Falcon

Falco mexicanus

7/15/202612113 South Gray Road, Medical Lake, Washington, US (47.548, -117.747)1 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/12/2026Cheney (town)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

67/21/2026

California Quail

27/21/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

17/21/2026

American White Pelican

107/21/2026

Bufflehead

17/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

27/21/2026

Mourning Dove

37/21/2026

Calliope Hummingbird

17/21/2026

American Coot

37/21/2026

Black Tern

17/21/2026

Northern Harrier

17/21/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

27/21/2026

Northern Flicker

47/21/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

237/21/2026

Willow Flycatcher

57/21/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/21/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

37/21/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

37/21/2026

Pygmy Nuthatch

17/21/2026

Northern House Wren

17/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Mallard, Northern Flicker, Western Bluebird, House Finch. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge?
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.